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Tree Surgery Terminology Explained: Crown Reduction, Crown Lift, Thinning and Pollarding

If you have ever received a quotation for tree work, you may have come across terms such as crown reduction, crown lifting, crown thinning or pollarding.

These are different methods of pruning a tree, each carried out for a particular reason. Although some of the terms sound similar, they can have very different effects on the size, shape and future management of a tree.

Understanding the terminology can make it much easier to know what work is being recommended and what your tree is likely to look like afterwards.

Summer pruning of tree

What is the crown of a tree?

Before looking at the different types of pruning, it helps to understand what arborists mean by the crown.

The crown is the upper part of the tree made up of its branches, twigs and foliage. Different pruning operations alter different parts of this crown depending on what needs to be achieved.

What is a crown reduction?

A crown reduction reduces the overall height and/or spread of a tree’s crown.

Rather than simply cutting branches back to the same level, selected branches are shortened to suitable growth points throughout the crown. The aim is to produce a smaller tree while retaining a natural, balanced shape.

A crown reduction may be recommended where a tree has become too large for its surroundings, where branches are extending towards buildings or other features, or where there is another arboricultural reason for reducing the size of the crown.

The amount of reduction should normally be clearly specified. For example, a quotation might describe a reduction in metres rather than simply stating that the tree will be “cut back”.

A properly carried out crown reduction requires careful pruning and consideration of the tree’s species, condition, structure and ability to respond to the work. Arboricultural Association standards for approved contractors specifically assess appropriate crown-reduction specifications, correct pruning cuts and the finished result.

What is a crown lift?

A crown lift, sometimes called crown raising, involves removing selected lower branches from a tree to increase the clearance between the ground and the bottom of the crown.

It does not mean reducing the height of the tree.

Crown lifting can be useful where low branches are obstructing a driveway, footpath, road, building or garden area. It can also make it easier to walk, mow or work underneath a tree and can allow more space beneath the canopy.

The work should be carefully considered, particularly on mature trees. Removing large lower limbs can create significant wounds and alter the structure of the tree, so it is not simply a case of removing every branch below a certain height.

A specification may therefore state the clearance that needs to be achieved, for example lifting the crown to a particular height above ground level.

What is crown thinning?

Crown thinning involves selectively removing a proportion of smaller branches throughout the crown while retaining its overall size and shape.

Unlike a crown reduction, crown thinning is not intended to substantially reduce the height or spread of the tree.

Instead, the aim is to reduce the density of branches within the crown. Depending on the tree and the reason for the work, this can increase light penetration and improve the distribution of branches throughout the canopy.

Crown thinning is usually expressed as a percentage so that the amount of growth to be removed is clearly defined. Arboricultural Association guidance for approved contractors describes thinning as a uniform operation carried out primarily towards the outer crown.

It is important not to remove too much foliage. Excessive or poorly distributed thinning can negatively affect the appearance and structure of a tree rather than improving it.

What is pollarding?

Pollarding is quite different from a standard crown reduction.

It is a method of managing certain trees by repeatedly cutting back branches to established points, encouraging new shoots to grow from these areas. Over time, distinctive swollen points known as pollard heads can develop.

Pollarding can be used to restrict the ultimate size of suitable trees and has traditionally been used to manage many street and landscape trees. Once a pollarding cycle has been established, the tree will usually require ongoing periodic management.

Importantly, pollarding is not simply another word for heavily cutting back a tree or “topping” it.

Whether pollarding is suitable depends on factors including the species, age, condition and previous management of the tree. Starting a new pollarding regime on an established tree is very different from maintaining a tree that has already been managed as a pollard for many years.

Which type of pruning does my tree need?

There isn’t one type of pruning that is suitable for every tree.

For example:

  • If a tree has become too large for the available space, a crown reduction may be considered.
  • If lower branches are causing an obstruction, a crown lift may be appropriate.
  • If the aim is to selectively reduce the density of the crown without significantly changing its overall dimensions, crown thinning may be recommended.
  • If a suitable tree is already managed on a regular pollarding cycle, pollarding may be required to maintain it.

In some situations, pruning may not be necessary at all, or a different type of tree work may be more appropriate.

This is why we assess the individual tree and its surroundings before recommending work. Species, age, condition, location, previous pruning and the reason for carrying out the work should all be taken into consideration.

Clear tree work specifications matter

Terms such as “trim the tree”, “cut it back” or “take some off the top” can mean very different things to different people.

A clear tree work specification helps both the customer and the arborist understand exactly what is going to be carried out. Where appropriate, this could include the type of pruning, the amount to be removed and the intended finished result.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we aim to carry out pruning work in accordance with BS 3998: Recommendations for Tree Work where applicable. As an Arboricultural Association ARB Approved Contractor, our work, knowledge and procedures are independently assessed as part of the scheme. 

If you are unsure what type of work your tree requires, we can assess the tree and recommend an appropriate course of action.

We provide professional tree surgery services for domestic and commercial customers throughout Lincolnshire and for larger projects, further afield. You can get in touch with us at Simpson Arboriculture via our website. Our friendly team would be happy to discuss options with you and arrange a free quotation for your tree work.

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Can Tree Work Be Done All Year Round?

One of the questions we are often asked is whether tree work can be carried out at any time of year. The simple answer is yes – tree surgery can be undertaken throughout the year, and our team works all year round in all seasons.

However, while tree work is possible at any time, there are certain factors that need to be considered when deciding on the best time to carry out specific jobs. These include bird nesting season, tree species, weather conditions and the objectives of the work.

Bird nesting season

One of the most important considerations when planning tree work is the bird nesting season, which generally runs from March to August in the UK.

Many birds choose trees, hedges and shrubs as nesting sites during the spring and summer months. Under wildlife legislation, active bird nests are protected, meaning work that could disturb nesting birds must be carefully managed.

This does not mean that all tree work stops during nesting season. Trees can still be inspected and, in many cases, work can proceed safely. Before any work is carried out, we assess the tree and surrounding area for signs of nesting activity. If an active nest is found, we will advise on the best course of action, which may include postponing work until the birds have fledged.

Different trees, different timing

The ideal time for tree work can vary depending on the species and the type of work required.

Some trees respond better to pruning at certain times of year. For example:

  • Certain species are best pruned during their dormant season in autumn or winter.
  • Some trees, such as birch, maple and walnut, can produce significant sap flow if pruned at the wrong time of year.
  • Fruit trees often have specific pruning windows depending on the desired outcome.
  • Deadwood removal and safety-related work can usually be carried out throughout the year.

Every tree is different, which is why professional advice is important when planning tree maintenance.

Winter tree work

Winter is often a popular time for tree surgery. Deciduous trees have lost their leaves, making it easier to see the tree’s structure and identify defects or areas requiring attention.

Ground conditions can sometimes be more favourable for access, particularly in gardens and woodland areas, and there is generally less impact on wildlife activity.

Summer tree work

Summer can also be an excellent time for tree work, particularly when reducing shading, managing growth or addressing concerns that become more noticeable when trees are in full leaf.

The presence of leaves allows arborists to assess the tree’s health and vitality more easily. However, additional care must be taken to account for nesting birds and periods of hot, dry weather.

Summer pruning of tree

Emergency tree work

Some situations simply cannot wait for the ideal season.

Storm damage, broken branches, diseased trees or trees that pose a risk to people or property may require urgent attention regardless of the time of year. In these cases, safety is always the priority, while still ensuring any wildlife considerations are taken into account wherever possible.

When is the best time for tree work?

There is no single answer that applies to every tree. The best time depends on the species, the condition of the tree and the reason the work is being carried out.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we carry out tree work throughout the year and can advise on the most suitable timing for your particular tree and requirements. Whether you’re looking to improve the health of a tree, reduce its size, remove dangerous branches or undertake larger-scale management work, we’ll recommend the best approach while considering both tree health and wildlife protection.

If you’re unsure when your tree work should be carried out, get in touch with our team for professional advice and a free quotation.

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Is my Tree Dangerous? Signs to Look Out For

Trees are an important part of our gardens, parks and landscapes. They provide shade, privacy, wildlife habitat and can add significant value to a property. However, like any living organism, trees can develop problems that may make them unsafe.

A dangerous tree does not always look obviously unhealthy. In some cases, a tree can appear perfectly normal while hidden defects weaken its structure. Understanding the warning signs can help you identify potential issues before they become a serious risk.

What makes a tree dangerous?

A tree may be considered dangerous when it has a higher likelihood of failure and could cause injury or damage if it falls or loses branches.

The level of risk depends on several factors, including:

  • The condition of the tree
  • The size of the tree or branches
  • The likelihood of failure
  • Nearby targets such as buildings, vehicles, roads or footpaths
  • Weather conditions and exposure to strong winds

Not every defect means a tree is dangerous, but certain signs should never be ignored.

Common signs that a tree may be dangerous

Dead or dying branches

One of the most obvious warning signs is the presence of dead branches, particularly large limbs high in the canopy.

Dead wood can become brittle and may fall without warning, especially during windy weather. If you notice branches with no leaves during the growing season, peeling bark, or limbs that appear dry and lifeless, it may be time for a professional inspection.

Cracks in the trunk or major limbs

Visible cracks can indicate structural weakness within the tree.

While some cracks are superficial, others may extend deep into the wood and affect the tree’s ability to support its own weight. Large splits or cracks should always be assessed by a qualified arborist.

Fungal growth

The presence of fungi on or around a tree can sometimes indicate internal decay.

Common examples include bracket fungi growing from the trunk or large roots. These fungi may suggest that parts of the tree are rotting internally, potentially reducing its structural strength.

Not all fungal growth is a cause for alarm, but it is worth seeking professional advice if you notice mushrooms or brackets appearing on a tree.

Leaning trees

Many trees naturally grow at an angle and remain perfectly stable for decades.

However, a tree that has recently started leaning, or one that appears to be lifting soil around its base, may indicate root failure or instability.

Sudden changes in a tree’s position should be investigated as soon as possible.

Cavities and hollow areas

Hollows can provide valuable habitat for wildlife, but they can also reduce the structural integrity of a tree.

The significance depends on the size and location of the cavity, as well as the amount of sound wood remaining. A professional assessment can determine whether the tree remains safe to retain.

Decay around the base

The root system is essential for keeping a tree stable.

Signs of decay around the base of the trunk, exposed roots, or areas of soft, crumbling wood may indicate a loss of structural support. Problems below ground often go unnoticed until more obvious symptoms appear.

Excessive dead leaves or sparse growth

If a tree shows poor leaf coverage, unusually small leaves, premature leaf drop, or significant dieback in the canopy, it may be under stress or suffering from disease.

While these symptoms do not automatically make a tree dangerous, they can indicate underlying health issues that warrant investigation.

Storm damage and tree safety

Following strong winds or storms, it is advisable to inspect trees for:

  • Broken or hanging branches
  • Fresh cracks in the trunk
  • Leaning stems
  • Damaged roots
  • Split branch unions

Some damage may not be immediately visible from the ground, which is why a professional assessment is often recommended after severe weather.

Can I assess a tree myself?

Property owners can carry out basic visual checks, but many structural defects are not obvious without specialist knowledge and equipment.

Factors such as internal decay, root problems and hidden weaknesses often require a trained arborist to identify accurately.

If you are unsure about the condition of a tree, it is always better to seek professional advice rather than wait until a problem develops.

When should I contact a tree surgeon?

You should consider arranging an inspection if:

  • Large branches have died or fallen
  • The tree has developed a noticeable lean
  • You can see significant cracks or cavities
  • Fungi are growing on the trunk or around the base
  • The tree is close to buildings, roads or public areas
  • You have concerns following a storm

A qualified arborist such as our team at Simpson Arboriculture can assess the condition of the tree, identify any risks and recommend the most appropriate course of action, whether that involves monitoring, pruning, bracing or, in some cases, removal.

Final thoughts

Most trees are far safer than people assume and provide enormous benefits to our environment and properties. However, like any living structure, they can develop defects over time.

Regular inspections and early intervention can help prevent problems, protect people and property, and often allow valuable trees to be retained safely for many years to come.

If you are concerned about the condition of a tree on your property, seeking professional advice can provide peace of mind and help you make an informed decision. At Simpson Arboriculture, we offer free quotations. To arrange your quote, you can get in touch with us via our website.

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What’s the difference between tree crown lifting and crown reduction?

If you’ve been advised that your tree needs some attention, you may have come across terms like crown lifting and crown reduction. While they might sound similar, they serve very different purposes—and choosing the right approach can make a big difference to the health, safety, and appearance of your tree.

So what is the difference between crown lifting and crown reduction? In this blog, we will provide a clear breakdown to help you understand what each involves and when they are typically used.

What is Crown lifting?

Crown lifting is the process of removing the lower branches of a tree’s canopy (its “crown”) to increase the clearance between the ground and the lowest branches.

This is often carried out to:

  • Improve access for pedestrians, vehicles, or machinery
  • Allow more light into a garden or property
  • Prevent branches from obstructing paths, roads, or driveways
  • Improve visibility, for example near road junctions

Rather than altering the overall size of the tree, crown lifting simply raises the height of the canopy. The shape and structure of the upper crown remain largely unchanged.

A careful approach is important—removing too many lower branches at once can affect the tree’s balance and long-term health. We would always advise having this carried out by professional tree surgeons. Qualified and experienced arborists will know how to effectively crown raise a tree to achieve the intended outcome, whilst supporting the health and balance of the tree.

What is crown reduction?

Crown reduction involves reducing the overall size of the tree’s canopy by shortening the outer branches. This is done by selectively cutting back to suitable growth points, maintaining the tree’s natural shape.

It’s commonly used to:

  • Reduce the height or spread of a tree
  • Manage trees that have outgrown their space
  • Minimise the risk of branch failure in exposed areas
  • Reduce shading or encroachment over buildings

Unlike crown lifting, crown reduction affects the entire canopy and requires skilled pruning to ensure the tree remains healthy and structurally sound. Again, as with any tree surgery work, you’re always best consulting a professional tree surgeon or tree surgery company to carry out the work.

Key differences at a glance

  • Crown lifting removes lower branches to raise clearance
  • Crown reduction reduces the overall size of the canopy
  • Crown lifting improves access and light at ground level
  • Crown reduction manages size, safety, and spread

Which one does your tree need?

The right approach depends on your goals and the condition of the tree. For example:

  • If branches are hanging too low over a driveway or garden, crown lifting is usually the best option
  • If a tree has become too large or is causing concern near buildings, crown reduction may be more appropriate

In some cases, a combination of both techniques can be used to achieve the desired result.

A final thought

Tree work is as much about long-term care as it is about immediate results. Both crown lifting and crown reduction should be carried out with an understanding of the tree species, its growth habits, and its surroundings.

If you’re unsure what your tree needs, getting professional advice ensures the work is done safely and in a way that supports the tree’s health for years to come. At Simpson Arboriculture, our team are fully qualified and experienced, making us a great choice to carry out your next tree work project.

If you would like guidance on the best approach for your trees, you can get in touch with us via our website. We would be happy to arrange for one of our team to come out and discuss the work with you.

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What’s the difference between tree pollarding and crown reduction?

Ash tree

Today, we are addressing a common query among our customers: What’s the difference between tree pollarding and crown reduction? These two pruning techniques may sound similar, but they serve distinct purposes in maintaining the health and aesthetics of a tree. Let’s shed some light on when and why each method could be undertaken.

Understanding tree pollarding

Tree pollarding is a specific pruning technique that involves the removal of all branches and stems of a tree back to the trunk. This severe form of pruning results in a compact head of branches, often referred to as a ‘Pollard head’. We would typically carry this out above the ground depending on the size of the tree.

  • Aesthetic control: We may carry out tree pollarding to control the size and shape of a tree. This can be especially useful in urban areas with limited space.
  • Long term maintenance: When carried out correctly, pollarding can extend the lifespan of certain tree species. It encourages the growth of a dense network of young shoots, which can reduce the risk of disease and decay.
  • Urban adaptation: We also may choose pollarding as an option to manage a tree’s size and shape within the confines of urban environments, thus preventing interference with power lines and buildings.

Understanding crown reduction

Crown reduction on the other hand, is a less radical approach to tree pruning. This technique involves selectively reducing the height and spread of a tree’s crown while maintaining its natural shape.

  • Canopy reduction: Crown reduction focuses on removing specific branches to decrease the overall size of a tree’s canopy. We often employ this method to address issues such as crowding, light obstruction or proximity to structures
  • Health improvement: Crown reduction can enhance a tree’s overall health by eliminating dead or diseased branches. This allows for better air circulation and sunlight penetration, promoting a healthier, more resilient tree
  • Aesthetic appeal: After discussion with a customer, we commonly choose this approach for its ability to maintain the natural form of a tree while addressing issues related to size and structure

Choosing the right technique

The decision between tree pollarding and crown reduction depends on various factors, including the tree species, its location and the aims and objectives of the work. Consulting with a professional and experienced arborist, such as our team at Simpson Arboriculture, is crucial. We can assess your tree and suggest appropriate action which will both achieve the customers’ aims and support the health and longevity of the tree. We specialise in carrying out tree work to ‘British Standard BS3998: 2010 Tree Work- recommendations’.

Conclusion

In the world of arboriculture, understanding the distinctions between tree pollarding and crown reduction is key to making informed decisions about the maintenance of your trees. Whether you’re looking to control size, improve aesthetics or enhance the health of your trees, Simpson Arboriculture is here to help! We can provide expert advice and professional services tailored to meet the needs of your trees. You can get in touch with us in the office or via our by submitting an enquiry on our website.

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Summer tree maintenance: protecting your trees from heat and storms

Summer can bring a whole manner of challenges for trees- from heat stress and drought to summer storms. At Simpson Arboriculture, we know first-hand that regular tree maintenance can help keep trees healthy and reduce risks.

High temperatures and drought can hugely impact the health of trees. It can cause leaf scorch, wilting and dehydration. Signs to look out for include brown or curling leaves and even premature leaf drop.

How to protect your trees from heat stress

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of a tree is a great way to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Deep watering is also vital to help trees stay hydrated. During hot weather, we would recommend watering early in the morning or late in the evening. Watering during hot, sunny weather can cause leaves to scorch. Deep watering is much more effective than frequent, shallow watering.

For suggestions of tree species that cope well with dry, hot conditions, you can gain more information by having a read of The Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) article: Trees for Climate Change.

The risks of summer storms

Summer storms can wreak havoc for your trees. They often bring ample amounts of rainfall which can cause waterlogging. They also very often bring high winds. This can cause tree branches to break and fall. Any weak points in trees that have been left unchecked can soon make themselves known in the form of snapped out branches or falling limbs.

Preparing for stormy weather

As with many things, preparation is key! We always recommend assessing your trees regularly to ensure that they are in good health and vitality. As part of your summer tree maintenance, checking for weak points, dead branches or even overgrown branches is essential. These could quickly become hazardous if left unchecked. Did you know that thinning out a tree’s canopy can reduce wind resistance by allowing the wind to move through it more easily? 

At Simpson Arboriculture, our professional team can advise you on the health and condition of your trees, and suggest key maintenance work to keep them healthy and minimise risk. From removing dead branches, thinning a tree’s canopy or reducing overhanging branches, we have the knowledge and expertise to advise you on what is most necessary. Our friendly team at Simpson Arboriculture can take care of the whole process from start to finish.

Get in touch

In conclusion, it’s always good to be prepared! Summer tree maintenance is very often better (and cheaper) than dealing with dehydrated or storm damaged trees afterwards. As a tree owner, there are lots of things you can do to ensure the health of your trees yourself, from mulching and regular watering, to doing annual visual checks of your trees.

If you think your trees would benefit from some expert tree maintenance work, contact Simpson Arboriculture. You can reach us in the office or via our website. We are always happy to discuss different options, sharing our professional opinions and quote for any work that is needed.

Summer pruning of tree
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Ash dieback: what landowners need to know

Ash dieback is a serious disease affecting ash trees across Europe. It is caused by the fungus Hymenoscyphus Fraxineus and can have a detrimental effect on this species of tree. It can lead to symptoms such as leaf loss, crown dieback and often decline or death of the tree. That’s why it is imperative for landowners to be aware of the implications of ash dieback, both for the health of your trees and the safety of those around you.

Our team at Simpson Arboriculture are knowledgeable and experienced in assessing and carrying out work on trees with ash dieback. Our approaches vary widely depending on the scale of the decline and the location of the tree. Trees are essential for a thriving environment and not all trees that have ash dieback need to be removed. We consider a range of factors to determine the best approach in managing ash dieback.

Ash dieback: landowner responsibilities

  1. Identification and monitoring. It is important to inspect ash trees regularly and monitor any decline or signs of dieback. This can include blackened leaf stems, wilting leaves and dead branches.
  2. Documentation. It is helpful to keep records of any of your ash trees you have concerns about. E.g., in the form of dated photos and observations. These can be useful to compare over time, especially if you are concerned that a tree is showing signs of decline.
  3. Consult a professional. We would always recommend speaking to a professional, such as our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture. We can identify signs of ash dieback and offer advice on an appropriate course of action.

Ash dieback: public safety

Trees weakened by ash dieback can pose a risk of failing. Dieback can severely affect the stability of the tree. Even if a tree looks stable from the outside, it can still behave unpredictably. Trees with ash dieback are at a higher risk of falling or having limbs or branches break. Public safety is of the utmost importance and landowners should consider the following points:

  1. Risk assessment. Conducting regular risk assessments or having a professional arborist do so for you is important. This is particularly true if your trees are close to paths, roads, buildings and public spaces.
  2. Preventative action. Sometimes, removing certain branches or reducing the crown of the tree can mitigate potential hazards.

At Simpson Arboriculture, we have machinery such as MEWPs, excavators and our tractor. These can be used when a tree is not safe for our arborists to climb. It is recommended that trees with ash dieback are sectionally dismantled rather than felled. This is because ash dieback can affect the structural integrity of a tree, making them highly unpredictable. This is a great way to ensure that the job is carried out with safety as the first priority.

Ash dieback: legal considerations

  1. Duty of care. As a landowner, you have a legal duty to ensure that trees on your property do not pose a danger to others.
  2. Regulations and permissions. Check with your local authority regarding any conservation areas or Tree Preservation Orders (TPOs). This might mean that you are required to submit an application to apply for permission before having any tree work carried out.
  3. Wildlife protection. It’s also important to be aware of laws for wildlife protection. For example, some activities may need to be restricted during certain times of the year due to nesting birds.

Ash dieback: protecting wildlife

As with many native species, ash trees provide an abundant habitat for a range of wildlife including birds, insects and fungi. Therefore, both tree owners and arborists need to consider the impact on wildlife and works planned accordingly.

For example, you may choose to leave an ash tree that is in decline but well away from any roads, paths or public spaces may be left if it has good habitat potential. Alternatively, if an ash tree must be removed for safety purposes, the landowner may consider leaving the stem as a ‘habitat pole’ so it can still provide a habitat for some wildlife.

Trees absorb a huge amount of carbon from the atmosphere. As ash trees are the second most abundant tree species in the UK after oak trees (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, June 2019), they are not only an important part of our landscape and environment, but essential in combatting climate change.

Ash dieback: when to take action

Early stages. Monitor and document the health of your ash trees, or ask a trusted arboricultural professional. Minor infections may not require immediate action, but changes should be monitored annually.

Advanced infection. Trees showing multiple signs of ash dieback, e.g., dead branches and structural issues, should be assessed by a professional. Pruning or removal of certain branches or limbs may be required to prevent future risks.

Preventative measures. In busy public areas with lots of infrastructure, proactive removal of infected trees may be advised to prevent future risks.

Conclusion

To conclude, it is imperative for landowners to be aware of their role and responsibilities in managing ash dieback. Landowners have a duty to monitor and identify the signs of ash dieback and consult a professional arborist for further advice if they are concerned. You can also refer to A Farmer’s Guide to Ash Dieback for further information.

Simpson Arboriculture are a professional and trusted local tree surgery company based in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. With over 18 years’ experience, we have gained a great reputation for carrying out all areas of tree work safely and efficiently.

If you are concerned that your trees may be showing signs of ash dieback, you can get in touch with us via our enquiry form on our website, or you can give us a call in the office.   

References

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/ash-tree-research-strategy-2019/conserving-our-ash-trees-and-mitigating-the-impacts-of-pests-and-diseases-of-ash-a-vision-and-high-level-strategy-for-ash-research#ministerial-foreword

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Tree Safety: How Tree Surgery Can Keep You and Your Family Safe

Simpson Arboriculture are a trusted and well-established tree surgery company based in Ancaster, Lincolnshire. Trees are not just beautiful additions to our landscapes; they are essential for a healthy environment. However, as majestic as they are, trees can pose potential risks if not properly maintained. In this blog, we’ll explore the crucial role of tree surgery in ensuring the safety of your property and more importantly, your loved ones.

The importance of tree safety

When left unchecked, trees can develop structural issues, diseases and hazardous limbs that may compromise their stability. These issues pose a threat to your property and the people around. Tree safety is not just about preventing damage to structures, it is also about protecting the well-being of those who inhabit the area.

The role of tree surgery

Tree surgery, or arboriculture, involves a range of practices aimed at promoting tree health, maintaining structural integrity and mitigating potential risks. Here’s how tree surgery can contribute to overall tree safety:

  1. Regular inspection: Professional arborists can identify signs of disease, decay or structural weaknesses. Early detection allows for timely intervention, preventing potential hazards.
  2. Pruning for safety: Tree surgery includes strategic pruning to remove dead, damaged or weak branches. This not only enhances the tree’s aesthetics but also reduced the risk of falling limbs during storms or adverse weather conditions.  
  3. Structural support: In cases where a tree has structural issues or is at risk of failure, arborists such as our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture, can provide support systems such as cabling and bracing. This helps stabilise the tree, reducing the likelihood of branches or the entire tree falling.
  4. Emergency response: Simpson Arboriculture are equipped to handle emergency situations, such as storm damage or fallen trees. Our quick response and expertise ensure a safe and efficient resolution to protect your property and loved ones.

Our experienced team have ample experience in dealing with fallen limbs, deadwood and trees blocking roads. They have attended emergency callouts on many occasions where trees have failed during storms and high winds and have had the power to destroy walls, fences, garden structures and even roofs.

Conclusion

At Simpson Arboriculture, we understand the significance of tree safety. Our team of skilled arborists is dedicated to preserving the beauty of trees while ensuring the safety of your family and property. Regular tree surgery not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your landscape, but also contributes to a secure and hazard-free environment.

If you have concerns about the safety of your trees or would like to schedule a visit for us to provide a quotation for work, contact us today. You can reach us in the office, or you can submit an enquiry on our website.

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Summer tree care tips

Summer pruning of tree

With the days getting longer and the weather (finally!) getting warmer, summer is just around the corner. For many of our customers, this means getting outdoors and enjoying their garden space. It’s also an ideal time to carry out some essential tree care. Whilst many people associate the autumn and winter months with tree pruning, care and maintenance, summer can also be a great time to carry out certain tasks.

At Simpson Arboriculture, our team can help! Our team of experienced arborists can advise you on maintenance and tree pruning and carry out any work needed professionally and efficiently.

Here are a few of our summer tree care tips. These are some helpful things you can do to ensure that your trees thrive all year round.

  1. Assessing the health of your trees. It is important to check your trees for any signs of weakness or damage regularly. This can help prevent any damage to your home or garden being caused when the weather changes and we experience more high winds and storms over the autumn and winter months. If you have any concerns, our team would be happy to have a look and advise you on any work that could support the health of the tree whilst keeping the trees safe.
  2. Removing dead, diseased or damaged branches. Removal of branches that are likely to snap out or fail is essential for tree owners. Summer is a great time to carry out this kind of maintenance ahead of the autumn and winter months.
  3. Tree watering tips. During the summer, particularly during periods of low rainfall and higher temperatures, you should water younger trees regularly. Deep watering will allow the tree’s roots to stay saturated- only watering on the surface will mean that most of this evaporates. Watering once or twice a week is usually about right, especially for young trees. We advise watering early in the morning to avoid leaf scorch and evaporation.
  4. Mulching. Adding mulch in around the base of young trees is a great way to conserve moisture during the warmer months. It’s also a great way to prevent weeds from encroaching. Tree owners should clear any grass and weeds to allow around a 1 metre radius. You can add woodchip or shredded bark in a loose 2–3-inch layer, avoiding direct contact with the trunk of the tree. This will allow oxygen to flow freely to the root system.
  5. Summer tree pruning. There are several tree species that the Arboricultural Association advise can be pruned during the summer months. These include magnolia, cherry, walnut, maple, birch and beech. Magnolia for example is prone to bleeding when pruned, so pruning during mid-summer allows ample time for healing to begin before the dormant season. Arborists can be carried out on many other tree species during the summer months. Our knowledgeable team will be able to recommend the best times for pruning and we can arrange this accordingly. For more information, you can refer to the Arboricultural Association’s ‘Guide to Tree Pruning’ leaflet.
  6. Checking your trees. Do you have a tree supporting a washing line, or any Christmas lights still up in the garden? If so, it’s important to check that these are loose enough around any tree branches. Owners should loosen any lights or other wires that are tightly wrapped around the branches, as these can result in wounds or damage to the bark. In some cases, they can also inhibit a tree’s growth.

Get in touch

So as we move into summer, be sure to keep up with your tree care and maintenance. If you would like some advice or a quotation for your tree work, our experienced team at Simpson Arboriculture are happy to help. Visit our website and submit an enquiry, or give our team a call in the office.

Regular tree care and maintenance through the seasons can ensure safe, healthy and thriving trees for many years to come.  

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Ash tree treatment: What to do about ash dieback

Ash tree

Over the last 10 years, ash dieback has swept across the United Kingdom. It has caused havoc among the country’s ash tree population. Ash dieback is a fungal disease that affects ash trees. Ash trees are our third most common tree species in the United Kingdom. They are an incredibly valuable part of both urban and rural landscapes. They also provide habitats for over 1000 species of wildlife, including many birds and mammals.

With more than 60 million ash trees across the country, many are expected to become affected by ash dieback in years to come. It is likely that many of these affected trees will eventually pose a safety risk. This is particularly important to consider if a tree is in a park, garden or on a roadside. In this blog we will address what to look for in ash trees and explore ash tree treatment.

Ash dieback: What signs to look for

There are several tell-tale signs of the ash dieback disease that it can be handy for tree owners to know.

  • Spots on the leaves
  • Wilted leaves
  • Branches that appear to be losing leaves or dying back
  • Lesions (dark patches) on the branches and/or trunk

A combination of these signs could mean that the ash tree has become infected with the ash dieback disease. However, we would always recommend consulting a qualified professional for advice.

Ash tree treatment: A silver lining

According to scientific studies, a small percentage of ash trees appear to have something called ‘Genetic tolerance’ to ash dieback. This means that if these trees are carefully protected and able to continue to grow and thrive, they will likely reproduce. This will create the next generation of ash trees. It is therefore essential for tree owners to understand what to look for in their ash trees. Knowing how to tell if ash trees are more tolerant and resistant to the infection is a good start. We would recommend contacting a professional.

Ash dieback: How to manage your ash trees

When it comes to ash dieback, it’s important to manage the risk. For example, is the ash tree overhanging a road or footpath? Do any branches overhang a busy area or playground? If so, then we would advise having a qualified professional assess the health of your tree and suggest steps for managing or removing the risk. If limbs of the tree have become weakened due to presence of the disease, they will likely become brittle and could snap or break. However, if an ash tree is situated in a field or hedgerow well away from any roads or footpaths, the risk is lower.

It is also worth considering whether a tree is showing any evidence of resistance or tolerance to the disease. If so, then it becomes increasingly important to try and preserve the life of the tree.

Ash tree treatment: Other considerations

In essence, felling or removing ash trees will not always be required, even if there is presence of the disease. The main priority is to manage the risk. A qualified professional may for example suggest managing the risk by reducing back several longer, overhanging branches. This could make the tree less likely to lose a limb or branch during high winds. If however, a tree may have become seriously affected by the disease. If this is the case and the tree is likely to fail, then the suggestion would likely be to remove the tree completely.

We would always recommend checking the health of your trees at least once a year by checking for any tell-tale signs of dieback. If any of these signs are present, contact a qualified professional. They can help you manage the health of the trees. An experienced professional will be able to suggest a management plan going forwards. This could also help you conclude if a tree is posing a high risk to people or property.

In a dead or dying ash, particularly where honey fungus is present, the risk of a tree breaking and falling in an uncontrolled manner is extremely high. This is why it is imperative for professional tree surgeons to carry out any work. Ash tree work requires meticulous planning as the tree may not be safe to climb. At Simpson Arboriculture, we would look at other options, ranging from working from the ground to using a MEWP or other machinery.

Get in touch

If you need some advice on your trees, we would be happy to arrange a visit. Our experienced team can discuss your trees and make recommendations for future work and maintenance. You can give us a call in the office or submit an enquiry via our website.

References

The Tree Council (2020). Ash Dieback Disease: A Guide for Tree Owners
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